Principles that Guide Rotary
The Object of Rotary
First formulated in 1910, the Object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, in particular, to encourage and foster:
The Four-Way Test
Of the things we think, say or do
Is it the TRUTH? Is it FAIR to all concerned? Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
FIRST. The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service; SECOND. High ethical standards in business and professions, the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, and the dignifying of each Rotarian's occupation as an opportunity to serve society; THIRD. The application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian's personal, business, and community life; FOURTH. The advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.
ROTARIANS PLEDGE
I am a Rotarian
I will always uphold the TRUTH. I am a Rotarian I will always strive to be FAIR in all of my dealings with my fellowmen. I am a Rotarian I will always endeavor to build GOODWILL and UNDERSTANDING in my community, among my countrymen and people of all nations. I am a Rotarian I will always seek to promote the greatest good for the greatest number of people in the spirit of ROTARY SERVICE. I am a Rotarian I will always uphold the Rotary International Motto, SERVICE ABOVE SELF.
5 Avenues of Service
Based on the Object of Rotary, the Five Avenues of Service are Rotarys philosophical cornerstone and the foundation on which club activity is based:
Club Service focuses on strengthening fellowship and ensuring the effective functioning of the club. Vocational Service encourages Rotarians to serve others through their vocations and to practice high ethical standards. Community Service covers the projects and activities the club undertakes to improve life in its community. International Service encompasses actions taken to expand Rotarys humanitarian reach around the globe and to promote world understanding & peace. New Generations Service recognizes the positive change implemented by youth and young adults through leadership development activities, service projects, and exchange programs.
Rotary Code of Conduct
(Formerly Declaration of Rotarians in Business and Professions)
As a Rotarian, I will
1. Exemplify the core value of integrity in all behaviors and activities
2. Use my vocational experience and talents to serve in Rotary 3. Conduct all of my personal, business, and professional affairs ethically, encouraging and fostering high ethical standards as an example to others 4. Be fair in all dealings with others and treat them with the respect due to them as fellow human beings 5. Promote recognition and respect for all occupations which are useful to society 6. Offer my vocational talents: to provide opportunities for young people, to work for the relief of the special needs of others, and to improve the quality of life in my community 7. Honor the trust that Rotary and fellow Rotarians provide and not do anything that will bring disfavor or reflect adversely on Rotary or fellow Rotarians 8. Not seek from a fellow Rotarian a privilege or advantage not normally accorded others in a business or professional relationship
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